One thing should be clear from the start: Austria is not at the top of the rankings of the friendliest people in the world. The Alpine Republic is better known for grumbling. This is also evident from research by the financial services provider Remitly, which surveyed 3,000 people in 27 countries – and got astonishing results.
The survey leaders asked about 3,000 people from 27 countries to answer some questions in April 2024. These questions are based on the so-called ‘Big 5 Personality Test’, a globally recognized and scientific personality test. The five most important personality traits are examined: openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion and neuroticism.
To investigate friendliness, only questions on the topic of friendliness were used. These show how much the respondents care about other people, whether they take the time for the people around them or whether it is important to them that they feel comfortable. The evaluation showed: the more points, the friendlier the people are.
Result surprised
A total of 40 points could be achieved. The winner achieved no less than 34.63 points and is called South Africa. “The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy for travelers and expats to feel at home with them. “It is not uncommon to be greeted by strangers on the street, and in general South Africans are very open to spontaneous conversations and making new contacts,” the survey says, citing reasons for the win.
Greece and Croatia are followed by two European tourist destinations on the podium. Their hospitality, especially towards strangers, is one of the reasons why many holidaymakers spend their summer holidays in these two countries.
As part of the study, subjects were also asked which country they found particularly friendly. 57 percent named their own country. In South Africa, 97 percent even declared themselves test winners.
Austria lags behind
If Germany, which is really not considered friendly, appears in eighth place in the rankings, Austria cannot be far away. You should believe it. But that’s where you’re wrong. Because Austria only occupies 21st place out of 27 countries. Just before France, just behind Switzerland.
The study still means good for Austria. In 2023, another, even larger survey of expats ranked us last out of 53 countries in terms of friendliness.
Source: Krone
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